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Thursday, 21 November 2013

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream

I've recently finished off my tube of Maybelline's Dream Fresh BB Cream (reviewed here), which I really loved, but I did want to try out something new. I've been really curious about Smashbox's Camera Ready BB Cream ($50/1oz.), so I was excited to see that it was a part of Sephora's Super Stars set, in my shade Light. I go back and forth daily between BB Creams and foundations, just depending on the look that I want and the amount of coverage that I need.

"Oil-controlling formulation with emollients and optical pearl pigments to provide hydration and visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles after only four weeks- Features SPF 35 sun protection- Comes in five shadesThis multitasking tinted cream formula with SPF 35 moisturizes, primes, perfects, controls oil, and protects for flawless skin on set and beyond. Formulated with emollients and optical pearl pigments, this BB Cream gives skin a glowing, ethereal look and provides a hydrating veil for the complexion to maintain moisture on the surface of the skin. With its ultrasmoothing finish, it instantly re-texturizes to create a smooth canvas and enhances the wear of makeup. Ideal even for oily complexions, this expert formula with UVA/UVB protection helps inhibit oil to prevent the complexion from getting shiny throughout the day without the typical chalky matte finish." - Sephora

Smashbox's Camera Ready BB Cream comes packaged in a sleek black tube, and I do quite like the packaging. It's simple, but it still does look more high-end. The shade Light is the lightest of the four shades in this line, and it matches my skin tone really well. This formula is on the thicker side, and it feels very creamy and hydrating on the skin. I like to apply this (along with most BB Creams) with my fingers, as I find that brushes can absorb too much of the product. This formula blends in easily, and it provides light to medium coverage.I also find that I like to skip the primer when I use this BB Cream, it just works better without it! If I'm needing more coverage I'll apply a light layer of foundation over top.

I find that Smashbox's Camera Ready BB Cream stays very well on my skin, although I don't normally have any issues with foundations or BB Creams wearing off throughout the day. This product provides a nice, natural look, so it's perfect for days when I just need a light layer of coverage to even out my skin tone. Smashbox's formula doesn't leave my skin looking or feeling greasy like I've found with some BB Creams. This finish is a nice natural look, not matte and not oily. I still do set this BB Cream and my concealer with a powder, just to make it last a bit longer. I also love that this formula contains SPF 35, that's amazing! One less step in the morning routine is always welcomed :)

Overall, I really do like this BB Cream from Smashbox. However, to be truly "camera ready" I think I would reach for a more full coverage foundation, such as Estee Lauder's Double Wear. While I love this formula, it's not that much different from Maybelline's Dream Fresh BB Cream, but it's about 4 times the price. If you're on a budget, I recommend checking out Maybelline's formula first, but if you want to treat yourself than Smashbox's formula is lovely too, and a bit creamier and a higher SPF.

Are you a fan of BB Creams? Have you tried out Smashbox's Camera Ready BB Cream before? :)